3.4 kb mitochondrial dna deletion for use in the detection of cancer

ABSTRACT

A method is provided for detecting a cancer in an individual, the method comprising detection of a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence between residues 10743 and 14125 in mitochondrial DNA by extracting the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from the biological sample obtained from the individual and quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence between approximately residues 10743 and 14125 of the mtDNA genome, and comparing the amount of mtDNA in the sample having the deletion to at least one known reference sample. Kits for conducting the method are also provided.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/470,175, filed Mar. 27, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/874,155, filed Oct. 2, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/507,027, filed Oct. 6, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/748,120, filed Mar. 26, 2010, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/975,390, filed Oct. 18, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,008,008 issued Aug. 30, 2011, which is a continuation of PCT/CA2006/000652, filed Apr. 18, 2006, which PCT application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 60/672,016, filed Apr. 18, 2005; 60/721,522, filed Sep. 29, 2005; and 60/789,872, filed Apr. 7, 2006, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. Additionally, this application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/470,175, filed Mar. 27, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/874,155, filed Oct. 2, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/507,027 filed Oct. 6, 2014 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/748,120, filed Mar. 26, 2010, which is a continuation of PCT/CA2007/001711, filed Sep. 26, 2007, which applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE IDENTIFICATION LISTING

The present application includes a sequence identification listing in .txt format as follows:

Filename: Sequence_Listing.txt

Size: 28 KB

Date Created: Jun. 1, 2019

This sequence identification listing is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety in the present application.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention is related to the field of mitochondrial genomics. In particular it is related to a 3.4 kb deletion in the mitochondrial genome and its utility as an indicator of cancer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Mitochondrial DNA (MtDNA) as a Diagnostic Tool

MtDNA sequence dynamics are important diagnostic tools. Mutations in mtDNA are often preliminary indicators of developing disease, often associated with nuclear mutations, and act as biomarkers specifically related to: disease, such as but not limited to, tissue damage and cancer from smoking and exposure to second hand tobacco smoke (Lee et al., 1998; Wei, 1998); longevity, based on accumulation of mitochondrial genome mutations beginning around 20 years of age and increasing thereafter (von Wurmb, 1998); metastatic disease caused by mutation or exposure to carcinogens, mutagens, ultraviolet radiation (Birch-Machin, 2000); osteoarthritis; cardiovascular, Alzheimer, Parkinson disease (Shoffner et al., 1993; Sherratt et al., 1997; Zhang et al, 1998); age associated hearing loss (Seidman et al., 1997); optic nerve degeneration and cardiac dysrhythmia (Brown et al., 1997; Wallace et al., 1988); chronic progressive external exophthalmoplegia (Taniike et al., 1992); atherosclerosis (Bogliolo et al., 1999); papillary thyroid carcinomas and thyroid tumours (Yeh et al., 2000); as well as others (e.g. Naviaux, 1997; Chinnery and Turnbull, 1999).

Mutations at specific sites of the mitochondrial genome can be associated with certain diseases. For example, mutations at positions 4216, 4217 and 4917 are associated with Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON) (Mitochondrial Research Society; Huoponen (2001); MitoMap). A mutation at 15452 was found in 5/5 patients to be associated with ubiquinol cytochrome c reductase (complex III) deficiency (Valnot et al. 1999).

Specifically, these mutations or alterations include point mutations (transitions, transversions), deletions (one base to thousands of bases), inversions, duplications, (one base to thousands of bases), recombinations and insertions (one base to thousands of bases). In addition, specific base pair alterations, deletions, or combinations thereof have been found to be associated with early onset of prostate, skin, and lung cancer, as well as aging (e.g. Polyak et al., 1998), premature aging, exposure to carcinogens (Lee et al., 1998), etc.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a frequently diagnosed solid tumour that most likely originates in the prostate epithelium (Huang et al. 1999). In 1997, nearly 10 million American men were screened for prostate specific antigen (PSA), the presence of which suggests prostate cancer (Woodwell, 1999). Indeed, this indicates an even higher number of men screened by an initial digital rectal exam (DRE). In the same year, 31 million men had a DRE (Woodwell, 1999).

Moreover, the annual number of newly diagnosed cases of prostate cancer in the United States is estimated at 179,000 (Landis et al., 1999). It is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer mortality in Canadian men. In 1997 prostate cancer accounted for 19,800 of newly diagnosed cancers in Canadian men (28%) (National Cancer Institute of Canada). It is estimated that 30% to 40% of all men over the age of forty-nine (49) have some cancerous prostate cells, yet only 20% to 25% of these men have a clinically significant form of prostate cancer (SpringNet-CE Connection, internet, www.springnet.com/ce/j803a.htm). Prostate cancer exhibits a wide variety of histological behaviour involving both endogenous and exogenous factors, i.e. socio-economic situations, diet, geography, hormonal imbalance, family history and genetic constitution (Konishi et al. 1997; Hayward et al. 1998). Although certain mtDNA alterations have been previously associated with prostate cancer, the need exists for further markers for the detection of prostate cancer.

3.4 kb mtDNA Deletion and the Detection of Prostate Cancer.

In the applicant's pending PCT application bearing publication no. WO/06/111029 (the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference) a deletion of a 3379 bp segment of mtDNA was identified through full mitochondrial genome amplification of prostate tissue. The 3379 bp deletion (referred to as the 3.4 kb deletion) was determined to be spanning nucleotides 10744-14124 of the mitochondrial genome. It was determined that the detection of this deletion could be used in the diagnosis of prostrate cancer when tissue samples are tested.

The 3.4 kb deletion removes all or part of the following genes from the mtDNA genome: (i) NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4L, (ii) NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4, (iii) NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5, (iv) tRNA histidine, (v) tRNA serine2, and (vi) tRNA leucine2.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is a cancer of the glandular breast tissue and is the fifth most common cause of cancer death. In 2005, breast cancer caused 502,000 deaths (7% of cancer deaths; almost 1% of all deaths) worldwide (World Health Organization Cancer Fact Sheet No. 297). Among women worldwide, breast cancer is the most common cancer and the most common cause of cancer death (World Health Organization Cancer Fact Sheet No. 297). Although certain mtDNA alterations have been previously associated with breast cancer, for example, in Parrella et al. (Cancer Research: 61, 2001), the need exists for further markers for the detection of breast cancer.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of detecting a cancer in an individual comprising;

a) obtaining a biological sample from the individual;

b) extracting mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, from the sample;

c) quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence spanning approximately residues 10744 and 14124 of the mtDNA genome;

d) comparing the amount of mtDNA in the sample having the deletion to at least one known reference value.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of detecting a cancer in an individual comprising;

a) obtaining a biological sample from the individual;

b) extracting mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, from the sample;

c) quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence spanning approximately residues 10744 and 14124 of the mtDNA genome;

d) comparing the amount of mtDNA in the sample having the deletion to the amount of the deletion in a reference sample of mtDNA from known non-cancerous tissue or body fluid;

wherein an elevated amount of the deletion in the biological sample compared to the reference sample is indicative of cancer.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of detecting a cancer in an individual comprising;

a) obtaining a biological sample from the individual;

b) extracting mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, from the sample;

c) quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence spanning approximately residues 10744 and 14124 of the mtDNA genome;

d) comparing the amount of mtDNA in the sample having the deletion to the amount of the deletion in a reference sample of mtDNA from known cancerous tissue or body fluid;

wherein a similar level of the deletion in the biological sample compared to the reference sample is indicative of cancer.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of monitoring an individual for the development of a cancer comprising;

a) obtaining a biological sample;

b) extracting mtDNA from the sample;

c) quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence spanning approximately residues 10744 and 14124 of the mtDNA genome;

d) repeating steps a) to c) over a duration of time;

e) wherein an increasing level of the deletion over the duration of time is indicative of cancer.

In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of detecting a cancer in an individual comprising;

a) obtaining a biological sample from the individual;

b) extracting mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, from the sample;

c) quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a sequence corresponding to the sequence identified in SEQ ID NO: 1;

d) comparing the amount of mtDNA in the sample corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1 to at least one known reference value.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

An embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the appended drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the design and sequence of a primer useful for the detection of the 3.4 kb deletion. The primer (SEQ ID NO: 2) binds to bases 10729-10743/14125-14139 of the mtDNA genome, wherein the portion of the primer that binds to bases 10729-10743 is depicted in gray in the upper left corner of the figure (nucleotides 1-15 of SEQ ID NO: 2) and the portion of the primer that binds to bases 14125-14139 is depicted in white in the lower right corner of the figure (nucleotides 16-30 of SEQ ID NO: 2);

FIG. 2 is a graph showing a comparison of cycle threshold between malignant and symptomatic benign participants in the 3.4 kb study;

FIG. 3 is a graph showing cycle threshold as related to Example 1;

FIG. 4 shows a ROC curve illustrating the specificity and sensitivity of one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 shows a ROC curve illustrating the specificity and sensitivity of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 shows real-time PCR data relating to 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion levels associated with breast cancer; and,

FIG. 7 shows a ROC curve illustrating the specificity and sensitivity of another embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein, “cycle threshold” (C_(T)) is the point at which target amplification using real-time PCR rises above background, as indicated by a signal such as a fluorescence signal. The C_(T) is inversely related to the quantity of the sequence being investigated.

As defined herein, “sensitivity” refers to the fraction of true positives (true positive rate) results obtained using the method of the present invention.

As defined herein, “specificity” refers to the fraction of false positives (false positive rate) results obtained using the method of the present invention.

In one embodiment of the present invention, methods are provided for monitoring and diagnosing cancer through the detection and quantification of the aforementioned 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion. For example, the present invention may be used for detecting the presence of pre-neoplasia, neoplasia and progression towards potential malignancy of prostate cancer and breast cancer. In one aspect, the present invention involves the detection and quantification of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion (SEQ ID NO:1) for the detection, diagnosis, and/or monitoring of cancer. In this method, mtDNA is extracted from a biological sample (for example body tissue, or body fluids such as urine, prostate massage fluid). The extracted mtDNA is then tested in order to determine the levels (i.e. quantity) of the 3.4 kb deletion in the sample. In tests conducted by the present inventors, the levels of the deletion were found to be elevated in samples obtained from subjects with cancer when compared to samples obtained from subjects without cancer. Based on the information and data supplied below, the inventors have concluded that elevated levels of the 3.4 kb deletion in the mtDNA is indicative of cancer.

As disclosed in PCT WO/06/111029, the 3.4 kb deletion spans approximately nucleotides 10744 to 14124 of the mtDNA genome. The mtDNA genome is listed as SEQ ID NO:8 (Genbank accession no. AC_000021). The inventors have determined, as provided by example below, that this deletion is also associated with cancer and in particular prostate and breast cancer. Therefore, such deletion provides an accurate biomarker and, therefore, a valuable tool for the detection, diagnosis, or monitoring of cancer in at least these tissues.

The deletion results in the creation of two deletion monomers, one of 3.4 kb in size (small sublimon) and one of approximately 12.6 kb in size (large sublimon). The occurrence of the deletion may be detected by either identifying the presence of the small sublimon, or by determining that the 3.4 kb sequence has been deleted from the large sublimon.

As discussed above, the deletion is approximately 3379 bp, and comprises genes encoding NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4L, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4, NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5, tRNA histidine, tRNAserine2, and tRNA leucine2.

In one embodiment, samples of, for example prostate tissue, prostate massage fluid, urine or breast tissue, are obtained from an individual and tested over a period of time (e.g. years) in order to monitor the genesis or progression of cancer. Increasing levels of the 3.4 kb deletion over time could be indicative of the beginning or progression of cancer.

Age related accumulation of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion may predispose an individual to, for example, prostate cancer or breast cancer, which is prevalent in middle aged and older men, and middle aged and older women, respectively. According to one aspect of the invention, a method is provided wherein regular cancer screening may take place by monitoring over time the amount of the 3.4 kb deletion in body tissues such as breast tissue or body fluids such as prostate massage fluid, or urine.

The system and method of the present invention may be used to detect cancer at an early stage, and before any histological abnormalities. For example, the system and method of the present invention may be used to detect pre-neoplasia in breast tissue.

The following primer sequences are preferred for the detection of the 3.4 kb deletion:

3.4 forward (binds to bases 10729-10743/14125- 14139 of the mtDNA genome) (SEQ ID NO: 2) 5′-TAGACTACGTACATACTAACCCTACTCCTA-3′; 3.4 reverse (binds to bases 14361-14379 of the mtDNA genome) (SEQ ID NO: 3) 5′-GAGGTAGGATTGGTGCTGT-3′.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a pair of amplification primers are used to amplify a target region indicative of the presence of the 3.4 kb deletion. In this embodiment, one of the pair of amplification primers overlaps a spliced region of mtDNA after deletion of the 3.4 kb sequence has occurred (i.e. a splice at a position spanning approximately residues 10744 and 14124 of the mtDNA genome). Therefore, extension of the overlapping primer can only occur if the 3.4 kb section is deleted.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a pair of amplification primers are used to amplify a target region associated with the deleted 3.4 kb sequence. The deleted 3.4 kb sequence, upon deletion, may reform as a circular mtDNA molecule. In this embodiment, one of the pair of amplification primers overlaps the rejoining site of the ends of the 3.4 kb sequence. Thus, an increase in the amount of the 3.4 kb molecule detected in a sample is indicative of cancer. The below primer pair is preferred for the detection of the deleted 3.4 kb nucleic acid.

Forward 14115/10755 (SEQ ID NO: 9) 5′-CCCACTCATCACCTAAACCTAC-3′ Reverse 10980R (SEQ ID NO: 10) 5′-GGTAGGAGTCAGGTAGTTAG-3′.

In one aspect of the invention, a kit for diagnosing cancer, for example prostate or breast cancer, comprising means for extraction of mtDNA, primers having the nucleic acid sequences recited in SEQ ID NOS: 2 and 3, or SEQ ID NOS: 9 and 10, reagents and instructions, is provided.

Another aspect of the invention provides methods for confirming or refuting the presence of a cancer biopsy test from a biopsy sample (e.g. prostate or breast cancer), comprising: obtaining non-cancerous tissue from a biopsy sample; and detecting and quantifying the amount of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion in the non-diseased tissue.

In one embodiment the present invention provides a method for screening individuals for prostate or breast cancer from a body fluid sample comprising; obtaining a body fluid sample, and detecting and quantifying the level of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion in the body fluid.

Although real-time quantitative PCR methods, as described in the examples below, represent the preferred means for detecting and quantifying the presence or absence of the 3.4 kb deletion, other methods that would be well known to an individual of skill in the art could also be utilized. For example quantification of the deletion could be made using Bio-Rad's Bioplex™ System and Suspension Array technology. Generally, the method requires amplification and quantification of sequences using any known methods.

The examples provided below illustrate that not only can this deletion be used for the detection of prostate cancer in prostate tissue, but can also be used to detect the presence of cancer in other biological samples, for example prostate massage fluid, urine, and breast tissue. Based on the findings in these examples, the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion may be used as a biomarker for cancer.

The various examples provided illustrate a difference in the amount of mtDNA having the 3.4 kb deletion between samples obtained from subjects having cancer, and subjects without cancer. The amount of the 3.4 kb deletion was found to be higher in the samples obtained from subjects having cancer. This determination was made by comparing the amount of the 3.4 kb deletion in the test samples with amounts from known cancer cells and/or known non-cancer cells.

EXAMPLE 1 3.4 kb Deletion in the mtDNA of Prostate Tissue

A deletion of approximately 3.4 kilobases (kb) was identified through full mitochondrial genome amplification of fresh frozen prostate tissue. Using linear regression, the size of the deletion was estimated to be between 3000 base pairs (bp) and 3500 bp. Two possible candidate deletions were identified using Mitomap™ (Brandon, M. C., Lott, M. T., Nguyen, K. C., Spolim, S., Navathe, S. B., Baldi, P. & Wallace, D. C., MITOMAP: a human mitochondrial genome database—2004 update. Nucleic Acids Research 33 (Database Issue):D611-613, 2005; www.mitomap.org.), the 3397 bp deletion at 9574-12972, and the 3379 bp deletion at 10744-14124. In order to determine which of the two deletions was associated with prostate cancer, if either, a forward primer which bridged the deletion junction was developed for each of the two candidates, ensuring that the primer extended further than the repeat regions that flank the deletions. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the design and sequence of the primer (i.e. SEQ ID NO: 2). Positive amplification results for the amplicon corresponding to the 3379 bp deletion (referred to as the 3.4 kb deletion) at 10744-14124 were obtained.

As indicated above, the 3.4 kb deletion removes all or part of the following genes: (i) NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4L, (ii) NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4, (iii) NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5, (iv) tRNA histidine, (v) tRNA serine2, and (vi) tRNA leucine2.

The 3.4 kb deletion was determined to be present in 91% of 33 fresh frozen prostate samples. With the specific deletion primers, formalin fixed tissues were tested in order increase the n value.

The present investigators sequenced entire mitochondrial genomes from 32 tissue samples microdissected by laser capture microdisection and 12 needle biopsies from histologically normal prostates. Archived tissue sections from each of these samples were used for the following study. 1-2 serial sections were removed from each sample. DNA was extracted from each sample in its entirety rather than as a microdissection. Thus, each sample consisted of a mixture of glandular prostate tissue as well as stromal prostate tissue. This extraction was performed using Qiagen's QIAamp™ DNA Mini Kit (Cat # 51304). Following extraction the samples were quantified using a Nano-Drop™ spectrophotometer and the concentrations were subsequently normalized to 2 ng/ul. Each sample was amplified using 20 ng input DNA and an iQ™ SYBR Green Supermix™ kit (Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.) Reactions were run on an Opticon® 2 two colour real-time PCR system (MJ Research).

As shown in FIG. 2, a distinct difference was observed in cycle threshold and, by extension, quantity of the deletion between the malignant prostate samples and the symptomatic benign prostate samples. Malignant samples exhibited a consistently earlier cycle threshold than the benign samples.

EXAMPLE 2 3.4 kb Deletion Blinded Study—Comparison of Cycle Threshold

An additional 21 prostate tissue samples were selected, 10 of which were benign and 11 of which were malignant. The pathological status was determined by needle biopsies conducted by a qualified pathologist. The samples were blinded such that the present investigators were unaware of their pathological status when they conducted this test. The present investigators were able to predict pathological status correctly in 81% of the cases by examining the cycle threshold. Of the 4 incorrect calls, two were malignant samples that were determined to be benign and 2 were benign samples that were determined to be malignant. Follow-up clinical information for the 2 individuals in the latter scenario was requested from the physician to determine if they had been diagnosed with prostate cancer subsequent to the needle biopsy results used for this study. One of the individuals who originally produced a benign sample but was predicted by this study to have a malignancy subsequently produced a malignant sample. As a result, one of the false positives became a true positive. Therefore, pathological status was predicted correctly in 86% of the cases examined in this study. The ultimate positive predictive value (PPV, where PPV=true positives/(true positives+false positives)) for this study was 91% and the negative predictive value (NPV, where NPV=true negatives/(true negatives+false negatives)) was 80%.

EXAMPLE 3 3.4 kb Deletion Study—Methods (n=76)

Seventy-six prostate tissue samples were examined for the 3.4 kb deletion in this study. All tissue samples were formalin-fixed, 25 being malignant, 12 being normal, and 39 having benign prostatic disease as shown histologically. Of the latter group more then half had hyperplasia. All specimens were needle biopsies taken from the investigators' tissue archives.

Prostate Specimens

A tapelift was performed on each slide using Prep-Strips (Catalogue Number

LCM0207) from Arcturus Bioscience Inc. This allowed the removal of any particulate matter or non-adhering tissue from the slide prior to DNA extraction. With the tissue still on the slides, the slides were rinsed with PBS (Phosphate Buffered Saline Solution) to remove as much fixative as possible. The 1-2 needle biopsy sections on the slides were scraped into sterile microcentrifuge tubes using individually wrapped, sterilized surgical razor blades. DNA was then isolated and purified using a QIAamp® DNA Mini Kit (Qiagen, Cat. # 51304) according to manufacturer's specifications. A negative extract control was processed in parallel with the slide extractions as a quality control checkpoint. The total concentration of DNA and purity ratio for each sample was determined by spectrophotometry (Nano-Drop™ ND-1000) and dilutions of 2 ng/μl were prepared for the purpose of Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR).

Primers (Oligonucleotides)

Purified oligonucleotide primers were chemically synthesized by Invitrogen (California, USA). The sequences of the primers and the expected sizes of the PCR products amplified are listed in Table 1. In addition, PCR analysis for mtDNA deletions included positive controls (DNA from a source known to carry the mutant mtDNA). Each primer set with the exception of TNF (tumor necrosis factor) were checked against a mitochondria-free rho 0 cell line to confirm the absence of pseudogene coamplification.

TABLE 1 Amplification Primers. Length of amplified Primer Pair Position Amplified 5′-3′ product (base pairs) 3.4 Deletion Real- 10729-14379 (less 3379 bp 273 Time at 10744-14124) 12s mtDNA 708-945 238 TNF 3756-3886 131 3.4 forward (10729-10743-14125-14139) 5′TAGACTACGTACATACTAACCCTACTCCTA-3′ SEQ ID NO: 2 3.4 reverse (14361-14379) 5′-GAGGTAGGATTGGTGCTGT-3′ SEQ ID NO: 3 12s forward (708-728) 5′-CGTTCCAGTGAGTTCACCCTC-3′ SEQ ID NO: 4 12s reverse (923-945) 5′-CACTCTTTACGCCGGCTTCTATT-3′ SEQ ID NO: 5 TNF forward (3756-3775) 5′-CCTGCCCCAATCCCTTTATT-3′ SEQ ID NO: 6 TNF reverse (3866-3886) 5′-GGTTTCGAAGTGGTGGTCTTG-3′ SEQ ID NO: 7

Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

Three separate PCRs were performed on each sample. Each reaction was 25p1 total volume and included template DNA, one pair of primers (12s or 3.4 Deletion or TNF), an iQ™ SYBR Green Supermix™ kit (Catalogue Number 170-8882, Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.) and distilled deionized water (ddH₂O). The TNF (tumor necrosis factor) comprised single copy nuclear gene primers, and 12s comprised total mitochondrial genome primers. The volume and concentrations for template DNA, primers, and reaction buffer are listed below.

TABLE 2 qPCR Components. Concentration per Volume per Reagent Reaction Reaction Reaction Buffer 1X 12.5 μl Primer (forward 250 nM 0.0625 μl of each and reverse) 100 umole stock ddH₂O N/A 2.375.μl  Template DNA 20 ng 10.0 μl Total   25 μl

The cycling parameters for each amplicon are listed in Table 3.

TABLE 3 Cycling Parameters. Step Temperature (° C.) Duration 1 95  3 min 2 95 30 sec 3 66 (3.4 deletion primers) or 30 sec 61.5 (12 s primers) or 61.5 (TNF primers) 4 72 30 sec 5 Plate Read 6 72 10 min 7 Melting Curve 50° C.-110° C. reading every 1° C.  3 sec Repeat steps 2-5, 44 times for a total of 45 cycles.

Thermal cycling, real-time detection and analysis of the reactions was carried out using a DNA Engine Opticon® 2 Continuous Fluorescence Detection System equipped with Intuitive Opticon Monitor™ software (MJ Research Inc.). The standard curve method was utilized for DNA quantification. A set of serial dilutions (10⁶, 10⁵, 10⁴, 10³, 10², 10¹) of three purified PCR generated templates, one product for the 3.4 deletion, one for the 12s primers, and one for TNF. From this, three different standard curves were generated showing the number of copies of total mtDNA (12s amplicon-total mitochondrial genome primers), the amount of mtDNA having the 3.4 kb deletion, or total nuclear DNA (TNF-single copy nuclear gene primers). The C_(T) values of the samples were then converted to the number of DNA copies by comparing the sample C_(T) to that of the standards. The 3.4 deletion was considered to be absent or at low levels if the deletion was not detected within 37 cycles.

The determination of malignancy is based upon the quantity of the 3.4 kb deletion present in the normalized sample as indicated by the location of the cycle threshold. This location may be either absolute, as in greater than 25 cycles but less than 35 cycles, or more likely a ratio between the total mitochondrial DNA present as indicated by the 12s amplicon, and the 3.4 kb deletion. This may be expressed as a per cent of the total mitochondrial DNA. The number of cells, as represented by the TNF amplicon, may be incorporated to refine the distinction between benign and malignant tissues.

In order to automate the analyses of these samples, bioinformatics tools were employed. The three variables that were considered for these analyses were the cycle threshold C_(T) of Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF), total pieces of mitochondria that contain those specific primer sites, and those mitochondria that harbour the deletion of interest.

Cluster Analysis

The clustering was not normalized nor were logarithmic functions used due to the similar and small range of data.

FIG. 3 shows the actual movement and trends of the data. The x-axis is the patient number and the y-axis is the cycle threshold obtained from real time PCR.

It is important to note that the higher the cycle threshold is, the lower amount of the deletion is present.

The general trend shown in FIG. 3 is based upon the differences/ratios between the variables of Deletion, Total, and TNF. The deletion is low to absent for the benign/normal samples (right side) and increases (toward the left) with abnormal benign and malignant samples. The abnormal benign and malignant samples begin to differentiate themselves from each other based on the cycle threshold ratio of Deletion to TNF.

Supervised Learning

Supervised learning is based on the system trying to predict outcomes for known samples. Half of the data was used to train and the other half to test the algorithm. Supervised learning compares its predictions to the target answer and “learns” from its mistakes. But, if the predicted output is higher or lower than the actual outcome in the data, the error is propagated back through the system and the weights are adjusted accordingly.

Data SET:

-   -   5% to 35%—Benign     -   35% to 65%—Hyperplasia     -   65% to 95%—Malignant

Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Algorithm (shown schematically below):

Half of Data set used for Training ANN

Other half used to compare the accuracy Accuracy=Compare expected data set with obtained data set→86.6%

Supervised Learning of Deletion Data using Artificial Neural Network (ANN)

Three Classifications:

-   -   Benign     -   Hyperplasia     -   Malignant

Three variables for each classification were used based on Real Time PCR Cycle Threshold C_(T):

Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF)—Nuclear copy control.

Total Mitochondria—Mitochondria copy control

Deletion—Mitochondria in the deleted state.

Results:

Half of data set is used to train the ANN, and the remaining half is used to compare the accuracy.

Three Classification Accuracy=86.6%

Positive Predictive Value (PPV);

Benign to Malignant=88.2%

Negative Predictive Value (NPV)

Benign to Malignant=76.5%

EXAMPLE 4 3.4 kb Deletion in mtDNA Associated with Breast Cancer

18 samples were tested from malignant and benign breast tissue, 9 being malignant and 9 being benign, for the presence of the aforementioned 3.4 kb deletion. Samples were classified as either malignant or benign using conventional histopathological analysis.

DNA was isolated and purified from the samples using a QIAamp® DNA Mini Kit (Qiagen, Cat. # 51304) according to manufacturer's specifications.

Purified oligonucleotide primers were chemically synthesized by Invitrogen (California, USA). The sequences of the primers and the expected sizes of the PCR products amplified are listed in Table 1 above.

Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction

Three separate PCRs were performed on each sample. Each reaction was 25 μl total volume and included template DNA, one pair of primers (12s or 3.4 Deletion or TNF), an iQ™ SYBR Green Supermix kit (Catalogue Number 170-8882, Bio-Rad Laboratories Inc.) and distilled deionized water (ddH₂O). The TNF (tumor necrosis factor) comprised single copy nuclear gene primers, and 12s comprised total mitochondrial genome primers. The volume and concentrations for template DNA, primers, and reaction buffer are listed below:

TABLE 4 qPCR Components. Concentration per Volume per Reagent Reaction Reaction Reaction Buffer 1X 12.5 μl Primer (forward 250 nM 0.0625 μl of each and reverse) 100 μmole stock ddH₂O N/A 2.375.μl  Template DNA 20 ng 10.0 μl Total   25 μl

The cycling parameters for each amplicon are listed in Table 5.

TABLE 5 Cycling Parameters. Step Temperature (° C.) Duration 1 95  3 min 2 95 30 sec 3 66 (3.4 deletion primers) or 30 sec 61.5 (12 s primers) or 61.5 (TNF primers) 4 72 30 sec 5 Plate Read 6 72 10 min 7 Melting Curve 50° C.-110° C. reading every 1° C.  3 sec Repeat steps 2-5, 44 times for a total of 45 cycles.

Thermal cycling, real-time detection and analysis of the reactions was carried out using a DNA Engine Opticon® 2 Continuous Fluorescence Detection System equipped with Intuitive Opticon Monitor™ software (MJ Research Inc.). The standard curve method was utilized for DNA quantification. A set of serial dilutions (10⁶, 10⁵, 10⁴, 10³, 10², 10′) of three purified PCR generated templates were performed, one product for the 3.4 deletion, one for the 12s primers, and one for TNF. From this, three different standard curves were generated showing the number of copies of total mtDNA (12s amplicon-total mitochondrial genome primers), 3.4 deletion or total nuclear DNA (TNF-single copy nuclear gene primers). The C_(T) values of the samples were then converted to the number of DNA copies by comparing the sample C_(T) to that of the standards.

The determination of malignancy was based upon the quantity of the 3.4 kb deletion present in the normalized sample as indicated by the location of the cycle threshold. This location may be either absolute, as in greater than 25 cycles but less than 30 cycles, or more likely a ratio between the total mitochondrial DNA present as indicated by the 12s amplicon, and the 3.4 kb deletion. This may be expressed as a percent of the total mitochondrial DNA.

In order to automate the analyses of these samples, bioinformatics tools were employed. The three variables that were considered for these analyses were the cycle threshold C_(T) of Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF), total species of mitochondria that contain those specific primer sites, and those mitochondria that harbour the deletion of interest.

Table 6 and FIG. 7 show the difference in the mean C_(T) scores for samples from malignant tissue and benign tissue. The mean C_(T) value for normal tissue was 30.5889, while the mean C_(T) for malignant tissue was 27.8533 thereby illustrating a difference in the quantity of mtDNA having the 3.4 kb deletion in malignant breast tissue compared to normal breast tissue.

TABLE 6 Mean values for C_(T) scores Group Statistics Std. Error GRP N Mean Std. Deviation Mean del3.4 normal 9 30.5889 2.53897 .84632 malignant 9 27.8533 2.52253 .84084

FIG. 8 is an ROC curve illustrating the specificity and sensitivity of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion as a marker for breast cancer when testing breast tissue. These results were obtained using a cutoff C_(T) of 29.1900. The sensitivity of the marker at this C_(T) was 77.8%, while the specificity was 77.8%.

Table 7 shows the calculation of the area under the curve for the present example. As a measure of the accuracy of the test.

TABLE 7 Results Showing Area Under the Curve Area Under the Curve Test Result Variable(s): del3.4 Asymptotic 95% Confidence Asymptotic Interval Area Std. Error^(a) Sig.^(b) Lower Bound Upper Bound .790 .112 .038 .570 1.010 ^(a)Under the nonparametric assumption ^(b)Null hypothesis: true area = 0.5

The determination of the cutoff C_(T) of 29.1900 is shown in table 8 below. The results listed in table 8 show that a cutoff C_(T) of 29.1900 provided the highest sensitivity and specificity at 78% and 78% respectively.

TABLE 8 Determination of C_(T)cutoff. Coordinates of the Curve Test Result Variable(s): del3.4 Positive if Less Than or Equal To^(a) Sensitivity 1 − Specificity 24.6000 .000 .000 25.6800 .111 .000 25.7700 .222 .000 25.9250 .333 .000 26.2050 .444 .000 26.8400 .556 .000 27.4800 .556 .111 28.1600 .556 .222 28.8800 .667 .222 29.1900 .778 .222 29.4600 .778 .333 29.8750 .778 .444 30.5850 .778 .556 31.2200 .778 .667 31.5000 .889 .667 31.7650 .889 .778 32.9900 1.000 .778 34.3350 1.000 .889 35.6400 1.000 1.000 ^(a)The smallest cutoff value is the minimum observed test value minus 1, and the largest cutoff value is the maximum observed test value plus 1. All the other cutoff values are the averages of two consecutive ordered observed test values.

EXAMPLE 5 The 3.4 kb Deletion in the Prostate Massage Fluid of Individuals with Prostate Cancer as Compared to the Fluid from Those Without Histological Evidence of Prostate Cancer

Forty prostate massage fluid samples were collected by urologists from patients who were either subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer or showed no histological evidence of prostate cancer following a prostate needle biopsy procedure. The sample was deposited on a IsoCode Card™ (Schleicher & Shuell), dried, and then extracted according to the manufacturer's protocol. All DNA extracts were quantified using a NanoDrop™ ND-1000 Spectrophotometer and the DNA concentration normalized to 2 ng/ul. Each sample was then amplified according to the following parameters:

1X iQ SYBR Green Supermix ™ (Bio-Rad P/N 170-8880) 150 nmol forward primer (SEQ ID NO: 2) (5′-TAGACTACGTACATACTAACCCTACTCCTA-3′). 150 nmol reverse primer (SEQ ID NO: 3) (5′-GAGGTAGGATTGGTGCTGT-3′)  20 ng template DNA in a 25 ul reaction.

Reactions were cycled on an Opticon™ 2 DNA Engine (Bio-Rad Canada) according to the following protocol:

-   -   1. 95° C. for 3 minutes     -   2. 95° C. for 30 seconds     -   3. 66° C. for 30 seconds     -   4. 72° C. for 30 seconds     -   5. Plate Read     -   6. Repeat steps 2-5 44 times     -   7. 72° C. for 10 minutes     -   8. Melting Curve from 50° C. to 105° C., read every 1° C., hold         for 3 seconds     -   9. 10° C. Hold

TABLE 9 Results showing the mean C_(T) Values for Prostate Massage Fluid Test Group Statistics Std. Error Group N Mean Std. Deviation Mean DEL3.4 benign 25 37.1869 3.18495 .63699 malignant 15 33.7712 3.98056 1.02778

Tables 9 and 10 show a significant difference between the mean C_(T) values obtained for the benign sample and the malignant sample groups (p=0.005).

TABLE 10 Results Showing Difference (p = 0.005) for C_(T) values of samples. Independent Samples Test t-test for Equality of Means Levene's Test 95% Confidence for Equality Interval of the of Variances Mean std. Error Difference F Sig. t of Sig. (2-tailed) Difference Difference Lower Upper DEL34 Equal Variances 1.251 .270 2989 38 .005 341570 1.14283 1.10217 5.72923 assumed 2825 24.696 .009 341570 1.20917 .92382 5.90758 Equal Variances not assumed

FIG. 5 is a Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve illustrating the specificity and sensitivity of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion as a marker for prostate cancer when testing prostate massage fluid. These results were obtained using a cutoff C_(T) of 37.3683. The sensitivity of the marker at this C_(T) is 87%, while the specificity is 64%.

The accuracy of the test depends on how well the test separates the group being tested into those with and without the prostate cancer. Accuracy is measured by the area under the ROC curve. Table 11 shows the calculation of the area under the curve for the present example.

TABLE 11 Results Showing Area Under the ROC Curve Area Under the Curve Test Result Variable(s): DEL3.4 Asymptotic 95% Confidence Asymptotic Interval Area Std. Error^(a) Sig.^(b) Lower Bound Upper Bound .768 .074 .005 .622 .914 ^(a)Under the nonparametric assumption ^(b)Null hypothesis: true area = 0.5

TABLE 12 Determination of Specificity and Sensitivity Coordinates of the Curve Test Result Variable(s): DEL3.4 Positive if Less Than or Equal To^(a) Sensitivity 1 − Specificity 26.2992 .000 .000 27.3786 .067 .000 28.2484 .133 .000 29.5193 .200 .000 30.1757 .200 .040 30.4580 .200 .080 30.5980 .267 .080 31.5709 .333 .080 32.5712 .333 .120 32.9500 .333 .160 33.3314 .400 .160 33.6547 .467 .160 33.9247 .533 .160 34.3554 .533 .200 34.9056 .533 .240 35.4650 .533 .280 35.9172 .533 .320 36.0648 .600 .320 36.3616 .667 .320 36.6421 .733 .320 36.8531 .733 .360 37.1188 .800 .360 37.3883 .867 .360 37.5200 .867 .400 37.8341 .867 .440 38.2533 .867 .480 38.5198 .933 .480 38.6519 .933 .520 38.8552 .933 .560 39.1258 .933 .600 39.2734 .933 .640 39.4952 .933 .680 39.7323 1.000 .680 39.8956 1.000 .720 41.0000 1.000 1.000

The smallest cutoff value is the minimum observed test value −1, and the largest cutoff value is the maximum observed test value plus 1. All the other cutoff values are the average of two consecutive ordered, observed test values.

The determination of the cutoff C_(T) of 37.3683 is shown in table 12 above. The results listed in table 12 illustrate that a cutoff C_(T) of 37.3683 provided the highest sensitivity and specificity.

EXAMPLE 6 The 3.4 kb Deletion in the Urine of Individuals with Prostate Cancer as Compared to the Fluid From Those Without Histological Evidence of Prostate Cancer

Urine samples were collected from 5 patients who were diagnosed with prostate cancer and 5 who have had a needle biopsy procedure which was unable to detect prostate malignancy. These samples were collected following a digital rectal exam (DRE) to facilitate the collection of prostate cells.

Upon receipt of the samples a 5 ml aliquot was removed and then 2 mls were centrifuged at 14,000×g to form a pellet. The supernatant was removed and discarded. Pellets were resuspended in 200 μl phosphate buffered saline solution. Both the resuspended pellet and the whole urine sample were subjected to a DNA extraction procedure using the QiaAMP™ DNA Mini Kit (Qiagen P/N 51304) according to the manufacturer's directions. The resulting DNA extracts were then quantified using a NanoDrop™ ND-1000 Spectrophotometer and normalized to a concentration of 0.1 ng/ul.

Samples were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR with the 3.4 kb deletion specific primers according to the following:

1X iQ SYBR Green Supermix ™ (Bio-Rad P/N 170-8880) 100 nmol forward primer (SEQ ID NO: 2) (5′-TAGACTACGTACATACTAACCCTACTCCTA-3′) 100 nmol reverse primer (SEQ ID NO: 3) (5′-GAGGTAGGATTGGTGCTGT-3′) 1 ng template DNA in a 25 ul reaction.

Reactions were cycled on an Opticon™ 2 DNA Engine (Bio-Rad Canada) according to the following protocol:

-   -   1. 95° C. for 3 minutes     -   2. 95° C. for 30 seconds     -   3. 69° C. for 30 seconds     -   4. 72° C. for 30 seconds     -   5. Plate Read     -   6. Repeat steps 2-5 44 times     -   7. 72° C. for 10 minutes     -   8. Melting Curve from 50° C. to 105° C., read every 1° C., hold         for 3 seconds     -   9. 10° C. Hold

TABLE 13 Mean values for C_(T) scores Group Statistics GRPfluid38 N Mean Std. Deviation Std. Error Mean CTf Benign 5 33.2780 1.10900 .49596 Malignant 5 30.6980 2.55767 1.14382

Tables 13 and 14 show a significant difference between the mean C_(T) values obtained for benign sample and the malignant sample groups (p=0.005).

TABLE 14 Results Showing Difference (p = 0.005) for C_(T) values of samples. Independent Samples Test t-test for Equality of Means Levene's Test 95% Confidence for Equality Interval of the of Variances Mean std. Error Difference F Sig. t of Sig. (2-tailed) Difference Difference Lower Upper CTf Equal Variances 1272 .292 2069 8 .072 258000 1.24672 −.29494 545494 assumed 2069 5453 .089 258000 1.24672 −.54639 570639 Equal Variances not assumed

FIG. 6 is a Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve illustrating the specificity and sensitivity of the 3.4 kb mtDNA deletion as a marker for prostate cancer when testing urine. These results were obtained using a cutoff C_(T) of 31.575. The sensitivity of the marker at this C_(T) is 80%, while the specificity is 100%.

The determination of the cutoff C_(T) of 31.575 is shown in table 15. The results listed in table 15 show that a cutoff C_(T) of 31.575 provided the highest sensitivity and specificity.

TABLE 15 Determination of C_(T)cutoff. Coordinates of the Curve Test Result Variable(s): CTf Positive if Less Than or Equal To^(a) Sensitivity 1 − Specificity 26.2900 .000 .000 28.4950 .200 .000 30.3850 .400 .000 31.0800 .600 .000 31.5750 .800 .000 32.1400 .800 .200 32.8150 .800 .400 33.8700 .800 .600 34.3350 .800 .800 34.3550 1.000 .800 35.3700 1.000 1.000 ^(a)The smallest cutoff value is the minimum observed test value minus 1, and the largest cutoff value is the maximum observed test value plus 1. All the other cutoff values are the averages of two consecutive ordered observed test values.

EXAMPLE 7 Detection of Re-Circularized 3.4 kb Deleted Sequence in Prostate Malignant and Benign Tissue

In this example, the amount of re-circularized 3.4 kb deleted mtDNA molecules in samples was tested as an indicator for prostate cancer. As mentioned above, the 3.4 kb sequence, upon deletion, may reform as a circular mtDNA molecule. Amplification of a target region from the deleted 3.4 kb mtDNA sublimon was conducted using a primer pair (SEQ ID NOS: 9 and 10). The forward primer (SEQ ID NO: 9), overlaps the rejoining site of the ends of the 3.4 kb sequence.

Prostate tissue was formalin-fixed paraffin embedded prostate tissue needle biopsies.

The reagent setup used for this example was as follows:

-   -   250 nmol each primer     -   12.5 ul of 2× reaction mix,     -   20ng (10 ul of 2 ng/ul) template in 25 ul reaction volume.

The cycling parameters were as follows:

-   -   1. 95 degrees Celsius for 3 minutes     -   2. 95 degrees Celsius for 30 seconds     -   3. 62 degrees Celsius for 30 seconds     -   4. 72 degrees Celsius for 30 seconds     -   5. Plate Read     -   6. Repeat steps 2-5 44 times     -   7. 72 degrees for 10 minutes     -   8. Melting Curve from 50-100 degrees, reading every 1 degree for         3 seconds     -   9 4 degrees HOLD.

Amplification of a target region from the deleted 3.4 kb mtDNA sublimon was conducted using a primer pair (SEQ ID NOS: 9 and 10).

Table 16 below provides a summary of testing conducted for the detection of the actual 3.4 kb deleted in mtDNA obtained from malignant and benign prostate tissue. Using a C_(T) score of 30.0, a clear identification of malignant and benign tissue was possible. As such, an increase in the amount of the 3.4 kb molecule present in a sample was indicative of cancer.

TABLE 16 C_(T) scores for Detection of Cancer in Prostate Tissue Description C_(T) Benign sample 1 33.75 Malignant sample 1 28.79 Benign sample 2 30.96 Malignant sample 2 28.4 Benign sample 3 32.19 Malignant sample 3 27.38

Although the invention has been described with reference to certain specific embodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as outlined in the claims appended hereto.

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What we claim is:
 1. A method of detecting a cancer in an individual comprising; a) extracting mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, from a biological sample from the individual; b) quantifying the amount of a mtDNA deletion in the sample, the deletion having a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1, the step of quantifying comprising the use of a pair of amplification primers, wherein one of the pair of amplification primers is adapted to bind to a rejoining site of the deletion after the deletion has re-circularized; c) comparing the amount of the deletion in the sample to at least one known reference value.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one known reference value is the amount of the deletion in a reference sample of mtDNA from known non-cancerous tissue or body fluid.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one known reference value is the amount of the deletion in a reference sample of mtDNA from known cancerous tissue or body fluid.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of quantifying is conducted using real-time PCR.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the one of the pair of amplification primers has a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:
 9. 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the one of the pair of amplification primers has a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:
 9. 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the cancer is prostate cancer.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the cancer is breast cancer.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the biological sample is a body tissue or a body fluid.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the biological sample is breast tissue, prostate tissue, prostate massage fluid, or urine.
 11. The method of claim 4, wherein the reference value is a cycle threshold.
 12. A method of monitoring an individual for the development of a cancer, the method comprising: a) extracting mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, from a biological sample obtained from the individual at a first time point; b) quantifying the amount of a mtDNA deletion in the sample, the deletion having a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1, the step of quantifying comprising the use of a pair of amplification primers, wherein one of the pair of amplification primers is adapted to bind to a rejoining site of the deletion after the deletion has re-circularized; c) repeating steps a) to b) at one or more second time points; wherein an increasing level of the deletion over time is indicative of the presence or development of the cancer.
 13. The method of claim 12 further comprising: (i) comparing the amount of the deletion in the sample to the amount of the deletion in a reference sample of mtDNA from known non-cancerous tissue or body fluid; and/or (ii) comparing the amount of the deletion in the sample to the amount of the deletion in a reference sample of mtDNA from known cancerous tissue or body fluid.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein the step of quantifying is conducted using real-time PCR.
 15. The method of claim 12, wherein the one of the pair of amplification primers has the nucleic acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:
 9. 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the cancer is prostate cancer.
 17. The method of claim 12, wherein the cancer is breast cancer.
 18. The method of claim 12, wherein the biological sample is a body tissue or a body fluid.
 19. The method of claim 12, wherein the biological sample is breast tissue, prostate tissue, prostate massage fluid, or urine.
 20. A kit for detecting a cancer in a subject, the kit comprising a pair of PCR primers for amplifying a target region of mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, in a biological sample obtained from the subject, said target region comprising a region of the mtDNA having a deletion spanning approximately nucleotides 10744 and 14124 of the mtDNA genome.
 21. The kit of claim 20, wherein one primer of the pair of primers is adapted to bind to a region of the mtDNA comprising a splice joining opposite ends of the mtDNA sequence after removal of the deletion.
 22. The kit of claim 20, wherein one primer of the pair of primers has a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:
 2. 23. The kit of claim 20, wherein the cancer is breast cancer or prostate cancer.
 24. The kit of claim 20, further comprising reagents and/or instructions.
 25. A kit for detecting a cancer in a subject, the kit comprising a pair of PCR primers for amplifying a mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA, deletion in a biological sample obtained from the subject, said deletion having a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1, wherein one primer of the pair of primers is adapted to bind to a region of the deletion comprising a rejoining site of the deletion after the deletion has re-circularized.
 26. The kit of claim 25, wherein the one primer of the pair of primers has a nucleic acid sequence as set forth in SEQ ID NO:
 2. 27. The kit of claim 25, wherein the cancer is breast cancer or prostate cancer.
 28. The kit of claim 25, further comprising reagents and/or instructions. 